Qualified Medication Aides (QMA) Practice Exam

Which layer of the skin is referred to as the "true skin"?

1. Subcutaneous layer

2. Dermis

3. Hypodermis

4. epidermis

The correct answer is: Dermis

The layer of the skin that is referred to as the "true skin" is the dermis. This layer is located beneath the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. The dermis is significant because it contains essential structures such as blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and glands (including sweat and sebaceous glands). It provides strength, elasticity, and hydration to the skin due to the presence of collagen and elastin fibers. The dermis also plays a critical role in thermoregulation and sensation, making it a vital component of overall skin health. The subcutaneous layer, also known as the hypodermis, is situated beneath the dermis and primarily consists of fat and connective tissue, functioning mostly as insulation and cushioning. The epidermis is the outer layer of the skin and does not contain blood vessels or nerve endings; it mostly serves as a protective barrier. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why the dermis is aptly referred to as the "true skin."